The Harmful Effects of Ageism and Outdated Language
Ageism is a prejudice or discrimination based on a person's age. While often subtle, ageist language can reinforce harmful stereotypes and negatively affect older individuals' physical and mental health. Terms like "elderly" can inadvertently paint an entire, diverse group of people with a single brush, implying frailty, dependency, or a diminished capacity. This can be especially damaging in healthcare and caregiving contexts, where communication must be based on respect and dignity.
Person-First Language: A Foundation for Respect
Just as with any group, the most respectful approach is to view and address older people as individuals, not as a monolithic group defined by their age. Person-first language is a powerful tool to achieve this. Instead of "the elderly," which is often seen as impersonal and "othering," prefer terms that emphasize the personhood of the individual.
Recommended Person-First Terms
- Older adults: This is a widely accepted and respectful term used by many health and aging organizations, such as the National Institute on Aging. It is neutral and avoids connotations of infirmity.
- Older people or older persons: Similar to "older adults," this phrase is inclusive and non-pejorative.
- A person 65 years and older: For studies or contexts requiring precision, specifying a particular age range is the most accurate approach.
Context Matters: Casual vs. Formal
The best term to use can also depend on the context and the relationship with the individual. In a casual conversation with someone you know, using their name is always the most personal and respectful option. In formal or medical settings, broader, neutral terms are most appropriate.
Other Alternatives to Consider
- Seasoned souls or wisdom bearers: These more poetic terms can be appropriate in certain literary or appreciative contexts, but should be used thoughtfully to avoid sounding condescending.
- Septuagenarian, octogenarian, nonagenarian: These terms, referring to individuals in their 70s, 80s, and 90s, can add a formal or celebratory tone, especially when discussing milestones. However, they are not suitable for all situations.
Avoid Terms with Negative Connotations
To foster a more positive and inclusive environment, it is helpful to be aware of and avoid terminology that carries negative baggage. These words, while sometimes used benignly, can contribute to harmful stereotypes.
Comparison of Outdated vs. Respectful Language
| Outdated or Potentially Offensive Terms | Recommended Alternatives |
|---|---|
| Elderly | Older adults, Older people, A person over 65 |
| The aged | Older individuals, People of a certain age group |
| Senior citizen | Older adult, Retiree, or the specific individual's name |
| Senior (unless preferred) | Older adult, or clarify the context (e.g., senior discounts) |
| Of a certain age | Person with a particular life experience, individual's name |
| Geriatric (as a noun for a person) | An older patient, a person receiving geriatric care |
| Sweetie, dear, honey (in a patronizing tone) | The individual's name or a respectful title (e.g., Ms. Smith) |
Empowering Communication for Healthy Aging
Moving toward more conscious language is part of a larger shift toward empowering older people and promoting healthy aging. This shift emphasizes independence, participation, and quality of life rather than focusing solely on decline or illness. Using thoughtful language is a simple but powerful way to support this movement.
It is important to remember that everyone has their own preferences. If a person you know refers to themselves in a particular way, that is the most respectful term to use for them as an individual. The overall goal is to prioritize the person's humanity and individuality over their age, recognizing that the aging process is a normal, continuous part of life. The World Health Organization's initiative for the Decade of Healthy Aging 2021-2030 is a testament to the global effort to create a more age-inclusive society. You can learn more about this global strategy from the Pan American Health Organization on their site [https://www.paho.org/en/healthy-aging].
Conclusion
Moving away from the word "elderly" is more than just an exercise in political correctness; it is a step toward conscious, empathetic communication that values the individual. By choosing person-first language and recognizing the unique contributions and experiences of every person, regardless of their age, we can foster a culture of dignity and respect. The best way to say anything to someone is with sincerity and a focus on who they are as a person. Adopting alternatives like "older adult" is a simple but effective way to begin that process.
